Non-native insects can hitch a ride on firewood and have the potential to damage large numbers of trees and put BC’s forests at risk. Many harmful insects and pathogens live hidden beneath bark and inside wood — even firewood that looks clean can carry invasive species.
You can help minimize the risk of transporting non-native insects by choosing to source your firewood local and Buy Local, Burn Local.
Why This Matters
Forest pests and diseases can:
- Kill or weaken trees
- Reduce wildlife habitat
- Increase wildfire risk through tree mortality
- Impact recreation, tourism, and local economies
- Create long-term management costs for communities
Once established, forest pests are extremely difficult to control. Prevention is the most effective tool we have.
Buy Local, Burn Local
Never transport firewood long distances. Instead:
- Buy local firewood
- Burn local firewood
- Leave it local